Charter News
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French Riviera by Yacht

french riviera

Where Heritage and Modernity Flow Seamlessly

There are coastlines that dazzle, and then there’s the French Riviera. A standout in the Mediterranean, a stretch of southern France synonymous with style, culture, and cinematic beauty, the Côte d’Azur has long attracted royalty, artists, and tastemakers. But it’s only by yacht that one can truly experience the Riviera’s rhythm, moving effortlessly from port to port, pausing for quiet moorings, or diving straight into its vibrant social scene.

Whether you're arriving for the Cannes Film Festival, cruising toward the nightlife of Saint-Tropez, or spending long afternoons at legendary beach clubs, the Riviera delivers summer in its most elevated form. 

Aboard your private superyacht, this legendary region becomes more than a destination. It becomes a living narrative of elegance, discovery, and escape.

A Coastline That Has Captivated for Centuries

The French Riviera’s reputation precedes it, and with good reason. Stretching from the Italian border to Saint-Tropez, the coast is a parade of cliffside towns, deep blue bays, and sun-soaked promenades. But what makes this region truly unforgettable is the diversity woven into its relatively short span.

One morning, you’re docked in the heart of historic Antibes, surrounded by ramparts and Picasso’s legacy. That evening, you’re sipping champagne off the coast of Monaco as the lights of the casino shimmer on the water. Between them lie secluded beaches, medieval villages, pine-scented hills, and some of the finest dining in Europe.

The Charter Capital of the World

Nowhere embraces the yachting lifestyle quite like the Côte d’Azur. With marinas built to accommodate the world’s most impressive vessels and ports that are destinations in themselves, the region has become a global reference point for charter excellence.

  • Port Gallice, nestled by the Cap d’Antibes, offers serene anchorage in a setting that has lured sailors for centuries.

  • La Napoule, with its medieval château and contemporary flair, is the perfect blend of past and present.

  • Saint Laurent du Var, just minutes from Nice Airport, provides ideal logistics with a relaxed beach-town vibe.

Each location on your itinerary has been selected not only for its beauty but for its character, its quiet pockets, and its proximity to the Riviera’s most coveted experiences.

A Culinary Journey as Rich as the Landscape

France is synonymous with gastronomy, and the Riviera is no exception. From Michelin-starred dining rooms tucked inside art-filled villas to casual seaside grills serving the catch of the day, the cuisine is both refined and deeply rooted in local traditions.

Your onboard chef sources from the region’s famous markets, think sun-ripened tomatoes from Nice, wild herbs from the Provençal hills, and rosé from boutique vineyards. Each meal is a reflection of place, season, and your personal preferences.

Pair your dining with a view of the Esterel Mountains or a quiet bay near the Lérins Islands, and even the simplest meal becomes unforgettable.

Beyond the Shoreline: Experiences Tailored to You

  • Day into Night: Drop anchor off Pampelonne or Paloma and tender ashore to a beach club where the scene shifts from sun-drenched lounging to sunset dining and champagne-fueled evenings.

  • Art & Heritage: Explore the Picasso Museum in Antibes, or take a private tour of the Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul de Vence.

  • Nature & Adventure: Paddleboard through the turquoise shallows near Île Sainte-Marguerite, or hike the red cliffs of the Esterel.

  • History & Mystery: Visit the Fort Royal, once home to the Man in the Iron Mask, or wander Roman ruins in Frejus.

  • Fashion & Indulgence: Shop at the designer ateliers of Monte-Carlo or unwind in a cliffside spa overlooking the Mediterranean.

And should you wish to arrive in style, or leave on a high note, Ikonic can arrange helicopter transfers to inland vineyards, perfumeries, or hidden hilltop estates.

The Best Time to Charter the French Riviera

The yachting season begins in May, when spring turns to summer and the Cannes Film Festival sets the tone for the months ahead. June through August offers the Riviera at its liveliest, while September and October provide milder weather and fewer crowds, perfect for those seeking a more tranquil escape.

Every season reveals a different side of the Riviera, whether it’s the energy of a Monte-Carlo Grand Prix party or the quiet hush of a morning swim off the Lérins Islands.

Crafting Your Riviera Charter

Ikonic Yachts curates each luxury yacht charter on the French Riviera with meticulous attention to detail. Our team works closely with you to understand your pace, preferences, and priorities, from cultural excursions to culinary indulgences and everything in between.

Your itinerary is flexible, your crew is seasoned, and your vessel is more than a mode of travel, it is your sanctuary on the sea.

Ready to Explore the Côte d’Azur?

Let Ikonic Yachts introduce you to the soul of the French Riviera, one anchorage, one village, and one exquisite experience at a time.

View the Full Itinerary
Explore our suggested 8-day route, including Monaco, Antibes, the Lérins Islands, and more.

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